John Oliver Plays 'Where in the World is Edward Snowden?' (Video)

By
Caryn James
|
James on ScreensJune 25, 2013 at 10:45AM

During the reassuringly funny Jon Oliver era at The Daily Show, the substitute host has begun every night by telling
us why Jon Stewart isn't around. Last night Oliver explained Stewart "is
currently in Moscow, or Ecuador, or on a flight somewhere or has escaped from
the National Zoo -- we don't know." That intro set up a later segment
tracing not leaky Edward Snowden's travels, but the U.S. ineptitude in getting
him back -- Oliver imitated a sad former boyfriend trying to call Hong Kong --
and the television coverage that has been almost entirely based on filling time
with maybes. His commonsensical yet outraged response: if you don't know where he
is, stop guessing!

During the reassuringly funny Jon Oliver era at The Daily Show, the substitute host has begun every night by telling
us why Jon Stewart isn't around. Last night Oliver explained Stewart "is
currently in Moscow, or Ecuador, or on a flight somewhere or has escaped from
the National Zoo -- we don't know." That intro set up a later segment
tracing not leaky Edward Snowden's travels, but the U.S. ineptitude in getting
him back -- Oliver imitated a sad former boyfriend trying to call Hong Kong --
and the television coverage that has been almost entirely based on filling time
with maybes. His commonsensical yet outraged response: if you don't know where he
is, stop guessing!

The Daily Show has found an ideal balance with its sub, the
same yet different: same direction from the writers, refreshed by coming out of
Oliver's mouth with a British accent and a touch of manic energy. Take a look at Oliver, very comfortable in one
of the show's most important zones: hilariously, true media criticism.